The Northgate Plague Strikes!

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Casually, students refer to this season as the time for the “Northgate Plague”, when everyone at school gets sick. There are preventative measures students and teachers can take to avoid getting sick. Students can adapt to healthier eating habits, like eating less processed foods, and more fruits and vegetables. Drinking enough water is also a large contributor to staying healthy. The National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine suggests about 15.5 cups (3.7 liters) of fluids for men, and about 11.5 cups (2.7 liters) of fluids a day for women.

So why do we get sick so much this time of year? Nasal passages dry up in the winter, causing the body to become more susceptible to viruses. As extra precautions, you should wash hands frequently, avoid touching your face, and keep hand sanitizer nearby. However, avoid over sanitizing-that leads to a resistance to antibiotics, which is harmful in the long run. Sleep is equally important for it rests mind, increases concentration, and allows the body to repair itself.

Sophomore Jorge Hernandez recommended, “People should just eat healthy, like fruits and vegetables, and I also exercise pretty hard in PE, and I never get sick.”

Getting the flu vaccine may prevent and diminish the severity of the flu virus and other illnesses. The flu shot is highly recommended every year by the end of October.

French teacher Julia Flanagan-Schmidt suggests students get the flu shot, saying, “For myself and for others I always get the flu vaccine every year. It’s not perfect but it’s better than nothing.”

The best ways to stay healthy are to sleep, eat healthy and get vaccinated. This is to keep you and your peers healthy and safe.